Wendy attended the club in the 1960s when it was held at the Horsham Showgrounds and was present at club shows at the racecourse and Coughlin Park. 

Her daughter Kelli was a member in the 1970s and 80s at the Riverside Recreation Reserve (RRR), as were Kelli’s daughters Courtney and Montana, who is still a member.

The Horsham Youth Centre Horse and Pony Club was formed at a meeting organised by Allan Creek at his house in June 1959 with the first riding meeting (at the Horsham Racecourse) planned for June 21. 

Office bearers were president, Allan Creek, vice presidents, Frank Latus and Mrs I V Kearney, secretary/treasurer, Mrs Scott Brown, chief instructor, Keith Harris and liaison officer Mr Bob Byrne.

Pony club membership grew rapidly, with 100 members in July.  Membership was 1/6d for children up to eight years and 5/- for those over eight. 

Sections included Beginners; Beginners who could canter in an enclosed area; Riders who could control their ponies in an open area and; Riders who were selected for training for shows.

Mr Paddy Johns of Dooen lent the club an educated show pony which could aid learners’ tuition.

In the 1970s Jim Heard offered the use of his South Wonwondah property and shearing quarters for an annual Pony Club camp in the May holidays. 

A cross country course was constructed then improved for the 1988 Pony Club Horse Trials and later updated under the direction of course builder Michael Creber.

Noel Janetzki, the cross country course co-ordinator worked with Jim Heard, members, parents and friends for hours building the jumps. 

At Easter 1998 The Wintec Horsham Horse Trials used the course for the cross country section of the event. 

The show jumping was co-ordinated by Lisa Mathews while the dressage section, organised by Jan Croser was held at RRR. The camp continued until 2002 when insurance issues ended ‘Heard’s Camp’.

In 2007 a Pony Club Reunion, instigated by Judy Bald and held at the RRR grounds, saw many past members return to reminisce about their time at the club.

The Pony Club continues today with the rallies being held at the Riverside Recreation Reserve.

The Horsham Historical Society welcomes the public to share their memories, experiences or photos of the Horsham Horse and Pony Club with them.